The Indiana Fever have waived DeWanna Bonner, the WNBA’s third-highest all-time scorer, marking the end of an uneasy tenure with the team. The announcement came on Wednesday as the Fever moved to part ways amid Bonner’s trade request and an inconsistent fit within the roster.
Bonner’s Short Stint and Request to Leave
Bonner, 37, joined the Fever on a one-year contract this season, following 15 years in the league with the Phoenix Mercury and Connecticut Sun. She appeared in nine games for Indiana but was relegated to a bench role after the first three contests. Throughout her stint, she averaged 7.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game while shooting 34.5 percent from the field. Since June 12, she has been absent from team activities due to personal reasons and formally asked for a trade.
Team Adjustments: Aari McDonald Signed to Roster
In conjunction with waiving Bonner, the Fever added guard Aari McDonald for the remainder of the season. McDonald, 26, has played three games with Indiana via the WNBA’s emergency hardship rule, contributing averages of 11 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.0 steals. She previously competed for the LA Sparks and Atlanta Dream.
Bonner’s Career Highlights and Future Status
Originally selected fifth overall in the 2009 WNBA Draft by Phoenix, Bonner stands 6-foot-4 and boasts an accomplished career including three Sixth Woman of the Year awards, two All-WNBA team selections, and two league championships. Following her release, Bonner will remain on waivers for 48 hours, allowing any team to claim her current $200,000 contract. If unclaimed, she will become an unrestricted free agent, able to sign with any team under the prorated veteran minimum.
Bonner’s Statement on Departure
Addressing her release, Bonner expressed gratitude and understanding:
“I want to sincerely thank the Indiana Fever for the opportunity to be part of the Fever franchise. Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out and I appreciate the organization’s willingness to grant my request to move on, particularly at this point in my career,”
she said.
“I wish the Fever great success as they continue to build around this dynamic group of young players.”
—DeWanna Bonner, Forward
Indiana Fever’s Standing and Outlook
The Fever currently hold a 7-7 record, placing them seventh in the WNBA standings as they navigate the season. The team aims to develop its younger core after parting ways with the veteran forward, signaling a shift toward growth and adjustment.